The F chord is one of the most difficult guitar chords to learn, but it is also very important. There are many different ways to play the chord of F major as they are often adapted to suit both the guitar player and the song. However, it actually provides more ways for you to naturally insert notes into the song.
Note: although all of the following keys can be used for F major in a song, click here to learn how to play the traditional full F key. How to play the F chord earlier is the easiest to help you practice.
Step
Method 1 of 4: Playing the Mini F Key
Step 1. Place your first finger on the first and second strings on the first fret
In other words, you'll be using your index finger to press the E and B strings on the first fret.
Try sliding your finger slightly back against the head of the guitar so that the strings are compressed against the sides of your finger. The sides of your fingers are a little harder so that it will be easier for you to press the frets
Step 2. Place your second finger on the third string of the second fret
In other words, use your middle finger to hold the G string on the second fret.
Step 3. Place your third finger on the fourth string of the third fret
In other words, use your ring finger to hold the D string on the third fret.
If possible, lightly touch the fifth (A) string with the tip of your third finger -- this will hold the string in place so it doesn't come out when you play the guitar
Step 4. Practice picking and strumming techniques
Once all of your fingers are in place, practice picking on the bottom four strings, until each note sounds clear.
- If your notes falter, adjust your finger placement until you can play them correctly. The first and second strings are usually the hardest to sound -- make sure your second and third fingers are on the right strings, rather than touching the strings below them.
- Once you can play each note clearly, practice the strumming technique in the key of F. Practice also switching keys from the key of F, then back to the key of the F. At first it may take you a long time to do this, but eventually you will get used to it!
Method 2 of 4: Playing the Classic F Key
Step 1. Try playing the key of an open F or classic F for a more beautiful and full sound
This version of the so-called classic F chord because it was widely used by musicians in the 60s and 70s adds an extra note to the mini F chord above, giving it a more beautiful and full sound. This chord is a little more difficult to play than the mini F chord, but easier to play than the bar F chord described in the next section.
Step 2. Place your first finger on the first string and second on the first fret
In other words, place your index finger on the E and B strings on the first fret. This step is exactly the same as the initial step to play the mini F key above.
Step 3. Place your second finger on the third string of the second fret
In other words, place your middle finger on the G string on the second fret. This tone is A.
Step 4. Place your fourth finger on the fourth string of the third fret
In other words, put your little finger on the D string on the third fret. You'll be on the F note, the base note in this key.
Step 5. Place your third finger on the fifth string on the third fret
In other words, place your ring finger on the A string on the third fret.
- This tone is an extra tone. The third finger is now on the A string, while your pinky is on the D string -- you can swap the positions of these two fingers to your liking, but most people find this position the easiest.
- If possible, touch the sixth (E) string with the tip of your third finger -- this is useful for muting the sound so that it doesn't sound audible when the guitar is played.
Method 3 of 4: Playing the F Key of the Bar
Step 1. Hit all the strings at the first fret
Place your index finger over the six strings on the first fret and squeeze them all together.
- Lean your finger slightly toward the head of the guitar, so you'll be hitting the strings with the hard side of your finger instead of the soft center.
- You have to use strong force to hold the six strings together. Try pressing your thumbs on the back of your neck for added power.
Step 2. Place your other finger
With your first finger in a bar lock position, place your second, third, and fourth fingers in an E key, starting at the second fret. More specifically:
- Place your second finger on the third (G) string on the second fret.
- Place your third finger on the fifth string (A) on the third fret.
- Place your fourth finger on the fourth string (D) on the third fret.
Step 3. Play another bar key
The finger positions used in a bar F key are an example of what is known as a bar E formation, because the fingers that follow the shape of the bar resemble the finger formation in a standard E key.
For example: in the same formation in the chord of F, slide your hand around the neck of the guitar until your index finger is on the third fret. This is the key of the G stem. If your index finger is on the fifth fret, you are playing the key of A, and if your index finger is on the sixth fret, you are playing the key of B
Method 4 of 4: Easier Learning
Step 1. Learn on the electric guitar
If you can choose between an electric and an acoustic guitar, learn how to play the F chord on an electric guitar first. Thinner strings and a smaller fretboard will make it easier for your fingers to move, especially when playing chords.
The strings on an electric guitar are closer to the fretboard, so you don't have to press too hard when playing them
Step 2. Buy newer, thinner strings
Purchase thinner strings (preferably 9 for electric guitars and 10 for acoustic guitars) if your current strings are very thick.
- The thinner strings require less finger force when pressed, so your fingers won't hurt as much!
- If you want to learn how to change guitar strings, look to related resources.
Step 3. Lower the action section
This part means the height of the string above the fretboard. To do so, you need professional help. However, this trick will really help you in learning to play the guitar.
- The lower the action, the less pressure you will need to hold the strings. Cheaper guitars are usually very high in action, so this can be a problem for novice guitar players.
- Fortunately, guitar shops are usually able to downgrade all guitar actions, as part of their installation service. You'll have to pay them for this, but your guitar will probably be a lot easier to play!
Tips
- When holding the first and second strings, try not to touch the sixth and fifth strings.
- Practice switching keys to get better at playing the chords of F (for example by switching between the keys of C, F, G).
- For a fuller sound when you play a chord, place your little finger on the fifth (A) string of the third fret.
